Paul Smith's introduction into fashion was completely accidental.His real passion was sport and his ambition was to become a professional racing cyclist, until aged 17 years when cycling-mad Paul was in a terrible accident. Six months in hospital followed and during this time Paul made some new friends.After leaving hospital he arranged to meet them again and by chance the meeting place was a local pub that was popular with the students from the local art college. It was then Paul knew he wanted to be a part of this colourful world of ideas and excitement.Within two years, Paul Smith was managing his first boutique in Nottingham Within 20 years of his introduction to fashion Paul Smith had established himself as the pre-eminent British designer. Paul Smith has the ability to anticipate, and even spark off trends not only fashion but in the wider context of popular culture. He manages to transmit a genuine sense of humour and mischief mixed with his love of tradition and the classics.